People ask us all the time for a maintenance schedule, so here is what we tell every customer at the store. This is the routine that keeps pools clear in the San Fernando Valley without overcomplicating things.
Weekly (year-round):
- Test your water. Check chlorine, pH, and alkalinity at minimum. You can do this with a home test kit or bring a sample to us for a free test.
- Skim the surface. Leaves, bugs, whatever blew in during the week, get it out.
- Brush the walls and steps. This prevents algae from getting a foothold, especially in shady spots.
- Empty the skimmer and pump baskets.
Monthly:
- Test calcium hardness and cyanuric acid levels.
- Clean or inspect your filter. Cartridge filters need to be hosed off. DE filters may need a backwash. Sand filters should be backwashed when the pressure gauge reads 8-10 psi above normal.
- Check your equipment. Look for leaks, listen for unusual noises, make sure the pump is priming properly.
Spring (March-April):
- This is when most pools need a reset after the cooler months. Bring in a water sample and we will do a full panel test.
- Increase pump run time as temperatures climb.
- Shock the pool if the water looks dull or the chlorine demand is high.
- Check the o-rings and gaskets on your pump and filter. Replace any that look cracked or dried out.
Summer (May-September):
- Peak swimming season means heavier use, more sunscreen and body oils in the water, and hotter temperatures that burn through chlorine faster.
- Test water twice a week if you can.
- Run the pump 8-12 hours a day (or at low speed all day with a variable speed pump).
- Keep an eye on your water level. Evaporation is at its worst in July and August.
Fall/Winter (October-February):
- Reduce pump run time as temperatures drop.
- You can cut back to testing every two weeks, but do not stop entirely.
- Consider a solar cover to retain heat and minimize water loss.
- This is a great time to upgrade equipment since the pool is getting less use.
That is the whole routine. It sounds like a lot written out, but once you get into the habit it takes maybe 20 minutes a week. And you always have us to lean on if something comes up.
